Pin A budget-friendly, family-favorite twist on classic Sloppy Joes, these bell peppers are filled with savory beef and tomato sauce, then baked until perfectly tender.
I have always enjoyed Sloppy Joes, and stuffing them into bell peppers makes the meal healthier and more fun for my whole family.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 4 large bell peppers (any color), 1 small yellow onion diced, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- Sauce & Seasonings: 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Toppings: 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the bell peppers upright.
- Step 2:
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 4:
- Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 5:
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Step 6:
- Arrange bell peppers in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly into each pepper.
- Step 7:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Uncover, sprinkle each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for another 5 7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 9:
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pin These peppers have quickly become a staple at our family dinners and bring everyone to the table happy and satisfied.
Required Tools
Large skillet, baking dish, knife and cutting board, spoon or spatula, aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese) and soy&gluten if using regular Worcestershire sauce. For gluten-free use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories 335, Total Fat 17 g, Carbohydrates 18 g, Protein 26 g (per serving)
Pin This recipe is sure to become a favorite addition to your weekly meal rotation and impress anyone who tries it.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce to avoid gluten-containing ingredients.
- → What cheeses can I use instead of cheddar?
Smoked gouda or pepper jack are excellent alternatives that add distinct flavors.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
The filling can be made ahead and refrigerated; assemble and bake the peppers before serving.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green salad complement the baked peppers nicely.
